The Port of MTN
The phenomenology of port and uncovering unspoken languages
My project seeks to delve into the layers of the Noord Street MTN taxi rank, located on the corner of Plien and Smit Str, uncovering the cultural, historical, and economic infrastructure that binds it to the community. It also sheds light on the power struggles, the enigmatic processes, and the societal interactions that define this space.
Through extensive research and on-site observations, my work highlights the unspoken languages that shape the rank, making it a rich tapestry of experience and culture. This project combines architecture, urban development, and gaming to explore the enigmatic world of the Noord Street MTN taxi rank in Johannesburg. This urban site, often overlooked in the grand scheme of city planning, acts as a dynamic and culturally significant port, where thresholds, transactions, and transitions merge to create a unique space.
The objective of my thesis is to uncover the unknown systems and languages that govern this site, presenting a board game to hack this complex environment and a manual for the city of Johannesburg, offering insights into designing taxi ranks while respecting their cultural infrastructure. In taking a unique aspect into my project, my proposition for the year is a board game. The game is about navigating through challenges, overcoming obstacles, and, most importantly, gaining an understanding of the uncharted territories that characterise the rank. This immersive and educational game embodies the port’s essence, transforming it into a tangible, interactive experience.
